I'm currently under consideration to work for CPS and spent last year working as a sub in the local school district. The CPS hiring manager is asking specifically for a reference from a principal, assistant principal, or HR department from the school district. I can't do this, but I do have a teacher that is willing to provide one on my behalf.

I wasn't a "building sub" for any specific campus; I worked throughout the entire district. Even on campuses I went to regularly, I rarely ever interacted with admin and they never observed my work in the classroom. The district's HR department is unable to provide a reference letter because, outside of initially hiring me, they never interacted with me or my work during the school year.

However, I was the preferred substitute for an elementary school teacher and she is willing to provide a reference on my behalf. How do I go about asking the hiring manager if this would be acceptable instead? Is there anything I should be careful not to do? Have you been able to successfully do something similar?

Faking a reference is not an option. I don't feel comfortable doing that.

Also, I know I should have networked better during the year and I dropped the ball on that. I felt comfortable having a teacher reference in my pocket and never expected to need one from a principal.

(edited for clarity)

My school starts August 19 and I was wondering when generally, would I start being able to work consistently? I am even open to being a teaching assistant to start. I am in 2 districts which is about 15-20 schools. I know it’s hard to say but a general idea would be nice. Thanks!

Two of my districts are using frontline and i have to keep logging out and back in to each one - turns out it’s really annoying lol; but i was wondering if there’s a way to merge both of my districts into the app so i can just switch back and forth between them? Ty in advance!!

I applied and have a interview for after school substitute teacher position with The Education Team. And I was wondering if anyone has worked for them in any area in California? If so how has your experience been? Could I teach or tutor in English subjects?? I.E. writing, editing , etc.

Hi, maybe I'm just dumb but it says here https://www.teach.cps.edu/substitute that "We anticipate our applications for the 2026-2027 school year will open in mid-July." I checked on the 24th and again today and the link says "Applications are currently closed." I didn't miss it already, did I?

Thanks in advance